Wow, things are still go for a possible discharge tomorrow. Not 100%, but close. Echocardiograms still show fluid near the heart and probably in the right lung, but doctors believe that movement, diuretics and some luck might move most of this out of the body.
We did the initial med dosing with all the correct formulas, suspensions, and pills with the Pharmacist. We've passed our initial trainings and the lights are all green for launch. Dr. Law is betting the fluid imbalance is NOT related to rejection, but is hedging his bets and having Ellis keep her PICC line in while at home for a while, just in case we need to return to Children's for some in-patient treatment next week.
Just so all the locals understand . . . While the Patrick's will be home, we are NOT going to be able to have too many visitors. We need to maintain a clean environment for quite a while and need to be especially vigilant for the first month (January). I'm sure a lot of you would like to come visit Ellis and the gang, but we need your help in keeping her suppressed immune system safe. Ellis will be available to email, video chat (Skype or FaceTime), talk on the phone, etc. She will be as anxious as you to see you in person, but we need to keep the germs at bay. OK?
We have twice weekly visits to Children's that will take most of those days. We have a new medical routine of checking vital signs and delivering medicines. We have to get used to our new life outside of the hospital. Feel free to email, text, phone or send us notes and stuff. We miss all our friends too.
We will celebrate New Year's Eve quietly and will have to postpone our Polar Bear Plunge too.
Team Patrick is moving on to our new reality with a strong heart leading the way, but we need to give it and Ellis the best chance for longevity by giving her time to sleep, exercise, eat mom's great cooking, soak in the beauty of Bainbridge, play with her dog and understand her new system quietly, cleanly and safely. Please help us to that end.
Keep your finger's crossed for a late afternoon discharge!
The Kass family is rooting for ya!!! Enjoy the home life, you all deserve it thru this long journey!!! Keep the updates coming as they are uplifting! Happy new year to you all! All thought and prayers are with you!
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